Jerryc41
Well-known member
My only experience bending sides for a uke is with making a uke based on a tennis racket, and that was one smooth curve. A regular uke is more complex. For the tennis uke, I used a pipe heated by a torch - not very elegant.
I saw the Earlex steamer online, and that looks good. The traditional bending iron, at about $250, isn't worth it for making one or two ukes, so it would be back to the torch and the pipe.
I also bought an electric charcoal charger, based on recommendations here, but I'd have to find a larger pipe. I realize that I'll have to build a form, too.
Speaking of the Earlex, prices range from $40 on eBay to $80 elsewhere. I'm leery of the one on eBay for $40.
So, if you have any ideas, I'd be glad to hear them.
EDIT: I just checked, and that eBay seller has only three Feedbacks, all negative.
I saw the Earlex steamer online, and that looks good. The traditional bending iron, at about $250, isn't worth it for making one or two ukes, so it would be back to the torch and the pipe.
I also bought an electric charcoal charger, based on recommendations here, but I'd have to find a larger pipe. I realize that I'll have to build a form, too.
Speaking of the Earlex, prices range from $40 on eBay to $80 elsewhere. I'm leery of the one on eBay for $40.
So, if you have any ideas, I'd be glad to hear them.
EDIT: I just checked, and that eBay seller has only three Feedbacks, all negative.
Last edited: